If you get excited every time it snows, this is the article for you. Here are nine outdoor things to do in Ottawa if winter is your favourite season.
Less- lifeoolongtheway | InstagramFind out morePinhey Forest TrailsTrailhead
Why You Need To Go: You can stretch your legs and explore the 6.4-kilometres of trails between towering trees. The forest is especially picturesque with a dusting of snow. There's also cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
- Find out moreRemic Rapids ParkPark
Why You Need To Go: It is one of the best winter trails in Ottawa. There are two paths along the river, one for snowshoeing or walking and another for cross-country skiers. Plus it's right in the city so it's super easy to get to.
- dylanlascelle | InstagramFind out moreMer BleueWetland
Why You Need To Go: If you live in the east end of the city, you want to add this spot to your bucket list. There are more than 20 kilometres of cross-country skiing and hiking trails to try. A picturesque boardwalk will take you right over the bog.
- Find out moreVillage Square ParkParkOpen5 AM – 11 PM
Why You Need To Go: With 31 kilometres of trails, you won't run out of areas for hiking or snowmobiling. There's even an old train bridge that's been converted into a trail you can walk across. Grab a friend and head here for a little fresh air.
- genreaudphysio | InstagramFind out moreGreenbelt (Ottawa)Wilderness Area
Why You Need To Go: This 30-kilometre-long trail along the Ottawa River is the perfect spot to try your new snowshoes. The winter sees less foot traffic than the summer but it's just as accessible. It's a nice and easy paved walking trail to get out and stretch your legs on.
- Find out moreMud Lake Conservation AreaHiking Trail
Why You Need To Go: It is a favourite with locals as the over 3-kilometre path will take you around the glistening lake. Keep an eye on the sky as you hike as the area is home to hundreds of species. It's especially peaceful in the wintertime.
- jennlynn_48 | InstagramFind out morePlage Shirley's Bay BeachBeach
Why You Need To Go: You can spend the afternoon enjoying the serene sights on this snowy 4.2-kilometre trail. It's a flat, easy loop through a wetland conservation area. In the winter, you can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and ice fishing.
- Find out moreBen Franklin Skating RinkSkating RinkClosed Now11 AM – 8 PM
Why You Need To Go: The Rink Of Dreams isn't the only free outdoor skating rink. This lesser-known gem is a fantastic spot to glide across the ice. It's a good-sized rink with plenty of space in Nepean.
- lilyslensonlife | InstagramFind out moreThe Rideau Canal PromenadeLandmark
Why You Need To Go: The Rideau Canal Skateway is 7.8 kilometres long and will take you past some of the most breathtaking landmarks in the city. The canal is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it's the largest skating rink in the world. No matter how many times you've been, it's always magical.
